How to Train Your Horse for Endurance Riding

A horse needs endurance training to ride for more than 25 miles at a time. This is especially true for a moderately inactive horse. With the proper steps a horse can be trained for endurance riding. The rider will have to prepare the horse physically and mentally for riding longer periods of time.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse
  • Saddle
  • Saddle pads
  • Riding Helmet
  • Halter
  • Lead rope
  • bridle
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Instructions

  1. How to Train Your Horse for Endurance Riding

    • 1

      If you do not yet have a horse, select an Arabian or Half-Arabian horse that is three years old or a little older. This breed is powerful and at three years of age is at the beginning of its prime for riding. Most other breeds, including the Kentucky Mountain Horse, Mustang and Appaloosa also are appropriate horses for endurance riding because they are swift and easy to ride. A lean horse will do better going longer distances.

    • 2

      Assess your horse's fitness level. You will need to know what shape your horse is in to find the right starting point for endurance training. To assess the fitness level of the horse, take the horse for a walk up a hill. If the horse becomes winded easily, begin with the basic training described below for a horse that is not very active. An active horse can begin with short rides.

    • 3

      Prepare the horse for training with the right equipment. Place a halter and lead rope on the horse. Use a saddle and saddle pads best suited for longer distances. Place the bridle on the horse, but not too tight. You do not want it to rub the horse's coat. Wear your helmet for each ride.

    • 4

      Start off gradually, training your horse by taking the horse for walks and trotting for about a week if the horse was not very active. Do this for about 45 minutes, five days a week for a month. Incrementally increase the training length to an hour during this first month.

    • 5

      Take the horse for short rides. Break up an initial 25-mile ride into three or four segments over three periods each week depending on the horse's condition. Build up the length of the ride time over a period of at least eight weeks. Assess the horse's individual progress. You'll notice the horse developing more muscle.

    • 6

      You will also need stamina as your training periods with the horse increases. Riding a horse can be physically demanding on the rider as well. Prepare to move freely with the horse. Train with regular workouts that strengthen your leg muscles and upper body.